What is a consequence of overusing a specific pesticide?

Prepare for the Missouri Agricultural Plant Pest Control Category 1A Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready to excel in your exam!

Overusing a specific pesticide can lead to increased pest resistance, where pests evolve to survive despite the pesticide application. This resistance occurs because the pests that are susceptible to the pesticide are killed off, while those with resistance traits survive and reproduce. As a result, the population shifts towards a greater proportion of resistant individuals, making the pesticide less effective over time.

Additionally, the overuse of a pesticide can cause potential harm to non-target organisms, including beneficial insects, plants, and wildlife. Non-target organisms can be adversely affected by the reduced biodiversity and the imbalance that can arise in the ecosystem as a result of heavy pesticide use.

Thus, the correct choice highlights the dual consequences of pest resistance and harm to beneficial ecosystems caused by the excessive application of a certain pesticide.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy